Howell Township police debut digital, anonymous crime tip line

Reporting a crime or suspicious activity in Howell Township is easier and more direct than ever, with the addition of a digital connection to township police.

The Anonymous Community Tip Line, which township officials say is the first of its kind in New Jersey, accepts information and allows for written dialogues with officers, and police say it's all with total anonymity. It's free of charge, and involves no program downloads or registration.

The p3Tips system can also be accessed by smart phones, through the App Store and Google Play.

Police Chief Andrew Kudrick says the innovation supports the department's "Committed to Community" mission. "I am proud to offer a simple and effective method for people to communicate with our investigators without fear of identification and retaliation. We are always looking for ways to enhance our service and this is another way of doing so."

The tip line will not be monitored 'round-the-clock, and police do not recommend it for emergency response. Emergencies should be reported by phone via 911 or to the department's communications center, 732-928-4111.